|MEERA|

I don't think I have ever been this happy in all these years. I felt elated, I felt like I was flying in the sky. But, my mother and Sheena were driving me insane. Ever since Veer and I announced that we wanted to get married in a week they have been taking me on shopping sprees for the past three days and we still couldn't find the perfect dress.

We weren't just having a traditional Hindu wedding but also a Christian one. I wanted a Christian one. Mom was a Christian and ever since we were small we not only visited temples but also regularly attended the church. I knew this would make her happy and she was happy but planning one wedding was hard adding another one to it was insanity.

We weren't having any relatives because I didn't feel comfortable around them. Just us the usual friends who were more than family. One wedding in the temple and the other one would be taking place in the church on the same day just a few hours later.

Even though it was only close family the planning and everything else was driving me crazy. I hadn't even been able to see Veer let alone talk to him for the past few days. It's so unfair! I was currently sitting in a boutique with my hands on my chin and staring at Sheena and Mom who were now arguing as to which dress would look better on me.

"Well, this never gets old!" I turned to find my future mother-in-law Naina Aunty standing behind me. I stood up greeting her with a hug. "I'm tired and hungry. I don't really care about the dress! Can you stop Mom from driving me crazy?" I ranted hurriedly and took deep breaths.

Naina Aunty laughed and rubbed my back. "Sorry kiddo I wish I could but I'm part of this as well. Apparently, Annie needed back up as in an extra pair of hands to help her." I groaned and sat back on the chair. Naina Aunty just laughed. I was tempted to ask where Veer was but I didn't because then I would be subjected to a lot of teasing and currently I wasn't in the mood for that.

He's so lucky! For one wedding he would be wearing a tux. So, that means he has to choose only the traditional one. Lucky him! Sheena and Mom were arguing about which one looks better on me now Naina Aunty was added to the mix as well. I had to not only try lehengas but also gowns. The more I think about it the more I feel a simple registrar marriage would have been better.

Nevertheless, Mom and Dad wanted to celebrate this moment, I would do anything for them and anything to make them happy. Besides everyone else is taking care of everything. They had split their jobs equally. I wanted to help but they said that they had it under control and that I needed to chill.

I just wanted to get over this. "Meera! Up, try this one!" Sheena pulled me out of the chair and stuffed a few lehengas into my hands. I groaned but when Mom glared at me I shut my mouth and began trying them on one by one. I stood outside and waited for them as they searched through the racks. It was a huge boutique that sold clothes exclusively for brides. There were sarees, lehngas, gowns you name it and it's there. The prices were a bit high but that didn't stop my Mom from shopping here.

I sucked in a breath when my eyes fell on a beautiful lehenga. The intricate designs on it were just so beautiful and I don't know why but I really wanted to try this one. It wasn't too gaudy buy just simple and right. The blouse was of a lighter color but it was still so beautiful.

I walked towards my Mom and tapped on her shoulders. "What is it?" My Mom asked irritated that I was disturbing her. "I want to try that one!" I pointed at the lehnga. Mom sucked in a breath when she looked at it.

"Woah! That actually looks so beautiful!" She whispered and walked towards it. Trisha the owner of the store helped my Mom get the lehenga. She handed it to me and asked me to try it on. The blouse needed a few alterations but otherwise, it was a perfect fit. My eyes filled with tears as I looked at myself in the mirror.

I walked out and almost immediately all the three women gasped. My Mom's eyes turned misty. "Oh my god! You look so beautiful!" Sheena mumbled and traced the designs with her fingers.

"My little girl is all grown up!" I smiled at my Mom and hugged her tightly. "Meera you look absolutely stunning! My son won't know what hit him! I usually hate shopping but this was absolutely worth it! You look, amazing sweetheart!" She cupped my cheek and kissed my forehead while I smiled at her.

"Well, then one done one more to go! Sheena on to the next one!" Mom instructed and I rolled my eyes but now I was really excited. We rummaged through the clothes. I had to try on a lot of them but I finally found a perfect one. I quickly rushed into the trail room to try it on. It was simple yet elegant. The lace was amazing. It was an off-shoulder that had lace sleeves and it looked simple but elegant. The ruffles were perfect as they cascaded down the gown and touched the ground.

Once again they gasped and squealed as to what a perfect dress it was. Sheena shopped for the bridesmaid's dresses and asked Trisha to stitch three of them. Seeing as I had three bridesmaids. We bought a few more clothes for the rest of the family and finally, the shopping spree was over.

Mom paid the bill despite me arguing that I could. "Meera I don't care how old you are! You will always be my baby!" She threw the routine dialogue in the air. I just shook my head and kissed her cheek. I laughed when I received a text from Veer that had a picture of him looking utterly bored. We were now walking towards a restaurant that was just down the street.

I just sent him a laughing emoji. The very next second I received a call. "I have to take this I'll join you guys in a while." I excused myself and the three of them walked away chatting about something.

"Hello, their future wife!" I laughed and blushed. Damnit! This man could make me blush with just mere words. "Hi, Veer!" I greeted him with a giggle. "So, are you done with shopping?" I knew there was something else that he wanted to ask.

"Yes, I am done with shopping! What is it Veer?" Veer chuckled huskily. "Can you keep your balcony door open tonight? It's been four days Meera! I'm really desperate here! I want to spend some time with you!" I giggled when I heard him whine. He was so cute at times.

"Veer if Dad catches you we are doomed! Actually, scratch that you will be doomed!" I laughed while Veer groaned. "I'll take the risk! Besides, there's no thrill without any consequences! So, just keep the door open!" I smirked and wanted to pull his leg a bit more.

"Veer ever heard of a saying that it's bad luck to see the bride before the wedding! Right?" I exclaimed with a singsong voice. "Not happening Meera! I'm coming tonight and you better keep your balcony door unlocked! Love you!"

I giggled feeling giddy and elated. "As you say! Just so we're clear if someone catches us it's all your fault!" Veer laughed and I felt content. It was so good to see him this happy and carefree. "I'll take the risk Meera! I don't care!" We chatted for a couple more minutes after which Veer had to go. I could hear his Dad and my Dad asking him to get off the phone.

"Love you Veer! Have fun!" I laughed as he whined and cut the call. I walked towards the restaurant found the table where everyone was seated. The rest of the afternoon was fun. Sheena and I laughed at some of the tips Mom gave on how to keep your husband under control. I laughed so hard that my stomach hurt and I had tears in my eyes.

I dropped off Sheena and Naina Aunty after the amazing lunch and drove home. The rest of the day was uneventful. I put away the dresses and watched some movies until it was time for dinner. Dad and Andy returned exactly a few hours before dinner looking completely exhausted while carrying a few bags.

After dinner, I lounged on my bed and stared at the television waiting for Veer to show up. I made sure to leave a ladder and instructed him to use that. His wounds were healed but I still didn't want him to put too much pressure on them which would be the case if he used the pipe to climb up to my room.

I yawned exhausted with the events of the day. I closed my eyes only for a second but fell into slumber the moment I did. I dreamt about the time Veer got shot a couple of months ago. Only this time he wasn't saved and died in my arms covered in a pool of his own blood. I knew it was a nightmare but I wasn't able to open my eyes. I could feel my heart race. I could see Mihir standing at the corner smiling at the scene before him. I had to get up! I couldn't see Veer like this.

"Meera! Get up it's a dream! It's okay! Calm down!" I heard a familiar voice and my eyes snapped open. Veer's figure hovered over me. He had a worried look on his face. I pulled him into my arms and hugged him tightly sobbing against his shoulders. Veer whispered sweet things in my ear trying to calm me down. I was literally shaking. The thought of Veer not existing anymore even my dreams were unbearable. I couldn't even stomach it.

He flipped us so that he was on the bed with me on top of him. "What happened?" He asked me when I was calm enough. My tears were dry but my heart was still racing. I pulled away and stared into his beautiful black eyes. I didn't want to worry him, so I leaned my head against the pillows and stared at the ceiling.

Veer sighed and turned to his side and wrapped his arms around my waist. I closed my eyes tightly as a few tears rolled down my cheeks. "Hey! It's okay if you don't want to tell me!" I shook my head and buried my face in his neck. I hugged him tightly and cried softly. What if he actually lost his life that time? What if the paramedics hadn't arrived on time? I would have been left alone for the rest of my life. I can't even imagine such a scenario.

Veer pulled back to look at my face. I sniffled and tried to wipe away the tears. He sighed and wiped it with the pad of his thumbs. I stared into his eyes which had nothing but love for me. He didn't hide his emotions from me anymore. "I had a nightmare! You died! I didn't like it at all!" I sobbed in between my words.

Veer tucked a piece of hair behind my ears and leaned forward kissing my forehead for a long time. "Shh, silly Meera! I'm right here and I'm not going anywhere for the rest of eternity! That's not happening! You and I have a lot of things to do! Besides, we still need to have sex in my dream places! The beach, oh somewhere in between the mountains oh on the pool table." I laughed and shoved his chest. He had to say that.

Veer laughed with me and kissed my cheek. "That's the only thing that I always want to see! I am fine Meera! As long as we have each other nothing can go wrong!" I nodded and kissed his supple lips. I pulled away smiling at him with my arms around his neck.

He moved my hands from his neck and placed my palm on his chest. My fingers tips touched the ridges of his scar and my heart tugged. I felt butterflies swirling in my stomach. The way he looked at me with so much love. I could feel the steady thud of his heart again in my hand and the smell of his cologne waft around me like a comfortable blanket. I was calm now but felt breathless because of the way he was looking at me and the feel of his body against mine.

"Do you feel that?" I swallowed and nodded because I didn't trust to speak at that moment. "That's only for you Meera! Every breath that I take is because I know that you are there with me. I take every breath because you are happy! This beats only for your love! I love you so much! I'm not going anywhere!" He whispered, I nodded as my eyes brimmed with tears.

I leaned closing the distance between our lips. His soft lips moved against mine. I weaved my fingers through his hair and opened my mouth. Veer moaned, his tongue entered my mouth exploring my mouth. We moved out lips vigorously. His fingertips found their way into my shirt and gripped my waist.

I pulled away to catch my breath. I moaned as he moved his lips down my jaw and sucked on my neck. A few seconds later we panted trying to catch our breath. "Yup we're doing it in the bathtub first! Want to do it now?" Veer asked while a playful smirk tugged his lips.

I rolled my eyes and laughed. "Shut up Veer! My parents are in this house! We are not doing it in my bathtub today! Behave!" I warned him, all he did was laugh and kiss my lips. "That is a risk but no worries! Soon! I'll hold you to it!" He whispered huskily and nibbled my ear. I moaned and nodded.

We talked about random things for the next few hours and fell asleep holding each other. I lay sprawled across his chest while he had a protective arm wrapped around my waist. I sighed contently and snuggled closer to his chest. I just hoped nothing would go wrong.

***

Today was finally the D-Day! I'm going to officially be Meera Raichand Gupta today. Veer was going to be mine forever. The past four days had gone by in a blink of an eye. Unfortunately, I had been so busy with the rest of the things that Veer and I didn't even have a second to spend with each other. We did manage to exchange a few texts but that's about it.

I groaned and buried my head in the pillow when Sheena, Ira, and Tanya barged into the room asking me to get up soon because it was time for me to get ready. I didn't understand why I had to get up now! It was only six in the morning and the first wedding was at ten! Four hours away.

I wanted to throw a tantrum because I was still so sleepy but I decided against it. Three to one ratio wasn't good! They would win the argument anyway. I loved the dressing up for Veer but I just wanted a few more minutes of alone time because I was starting to feel nervous. I was shoved into the shower and then I wore my dress.

Sheena and Tanya did my makeup while Ira styled my hair into a bun and made sure to put all the jewelry. My hands were now adorned with bangles and Mehendi which I had gotten done just yesterday. They were so dark and everyone teased me saying that Veer loved me a lot. I didn't mind because it was the truth. I had even gotten his name written across my wrist.

Once everything was done. Ira finally attached a nose ring which completed the bridal look. I gasped as I stared at my reflection. My eyes were brightly adorned with kohl and my face was glowing most of all I looked really pretty. Sheena clicked a few of my pictures while the other two cooed at me.

"You look amazing Di! Bhai won't know what hit him!" Tanya whispered. She already told me that she wasn't going to address me as Bhabhi as it sounded foreign and I agreed. Besides we had grown up together, which basically made us sisters. "Yeah, she's right!" Ira and Sheena exclaimed together.

I was instructed to sit on the bed for the next few minutes until they got ready. The dress was actually not heavy at all so I was comfortable enough. I fiddled with my fingers and this nagging feeling that I was forgetting something. I sucked in a breath when I realized I still hadn't read Sister Brenda's letter.

I quickly rummaged through my drawer and finally found her letter. She asked me to open it when the time was right and it felt like that. Taking a deep breath I opened the envelope and pulled out the sheet. I opened the folded paper and quickly scanned my eyes across the words.

Dear Meera,
If you are reading this letter that means I'm gone. Just know that I'm in a better place now.

I sniffed and wiped a stray tear and gathered the courage to read further.

Meera I know that you still feel like you don't belong at times and still think about your birth family. I know it isn't fair what they did to you but you found people who will treasure you forever. I could not have found better parents for you. Arjun and Annie have done an amazing job. They raised you to be strong, passionate, and most of all instilled values in you. Tell them that I thank them for keeping their promise and making you the person that you are today. You are a Raichand Meera and don't ever doubt that for a second.

I smiled and nodded. I could picture her in my head and listen to her voice as I read the letter. I was insecure at times but I knew that this was where I belonged.

Veer can be really hard-headed sometimes, but I know that both of you are made for each other. I know he can be stupid but don't ever give up on him Meera! I have not seen two souls who are as connected as you two are. Take care of each other, be there for each other and most of all love each other.

If I'm not wrong by the time you read this letter Veer and you would have already been together. The wedding bells should be ringing soon! God bless you, my child! Take care of yourself and your family! You are a strong woman never forget that!

With love,
Sister Brenda

I felt content after reading her letter! Only if she knew that Veer and I were getting married today she would have been so happy. My cheeks were now completely wet. I knew Sheena had to do my makeup again but thank god it was waterproof at least they didn't smudge. After applying the makeup again I pulled myself together and waited until it was time to leave.

I asked everyone to give me some space for a few minutes which they did without questioning me. A few minutes later Mom and Dad entered the room and smiled at me. I smiled back at them.

Mom tucked a piece of hair behind my ear and kissed my cheek. "You look really beautiful baby! Just remember that no matter what I'm always there for you! I knew you were ours the moment I saw you with those pigtails and your innocent smile." My eyes glistened with tears and I nodded hugging her tightly. She pulled away and shared a look with Dad who was standing a few feet away from us. He had just been looking at us the entire time with a box in his hand.

Once Mom exited the room he walked towards me and passed the box to me. I opened it to find the most beautiful necklace that I had ever seen. It was a silver chain that had a fighter plane pendant attached to it.

"Your grandmother had this made for you and asked me to promise her that I would give this to you as a gift from her side at your wedding in case she wouldn't be alive. She always knew you would turn out to be special just like the rest of us did. She would have been so proud of you baby!" I smiled at him with tears in my eyes. She was a remarkable woman. I knew her only for a handful of years but she inspired me too.

He pulled out the chain and clasped it around my neck. Sure it didn't match with the other jewelry but it was the best. Dad kissed my forehead and hugged me tightly. "You are the best thing that has ever happened to us Meera! No matter where you go whatever happens just remember that I'm really proud of you! The first time I saw with those pigtails I knew you were ours in every way!" I sobbed and hugged him tightly. He said the same words as Mom did.

"Yes, she has always destined to be ours!" Mom whispered and joined the hug. A few seconds later I felt another pair of arms wrap around me. Andy kissed my cheek. "I'm going to miss you Di!" We shared a big family hug.

"Okay, that's enough! Come on let's go!" My Mom was the first one to pull away. She helped me set my hair the pulled the veil so that it covered my head. We drove towards the temple and I felt butterflies swirling in my stomach. 

We reached the temple and Mom helped out of the car. There was a mandap that was arranged for us. I sucked in a breath when I found Veer wearing a red kurta sitting there near the havan and doing the rituals with at most concentration. My Dad walked me towards him when the priest asked to bring the bride.

My eyes locked with Veers and the rest of the surroundings turned blur. He was the only one that existed. I wanted to laugh as his mouth dropped open when he saw me. I carefully sat beside him and began performing the rituals. "You look breathtaking Meera!" I giggled, "You look very handsome Veer!" Veer grinned widely. 

Dad did the kanyadaan after which the priest asked us to take the saath pheras around the fire. Tanya tied the knot. We took the rounds and with each round, we made promises that would last for a lifetime. This tied us together for seven lives. After which Veer took a pinch of sindoor in between his fingers and put it on my forehead. My eyes closed and I felt my heartbeat race as a few particles dusted my nose.

"See, this proves that I love you so much!" Veer whispered and I giggled. "I don't need proof I already know that!" Veer chucked and tapped my nose. I stared into his eyes as he tied the nuptial chain around my neck. Sealing the deal completely and making me his forever. I could hear everyone clapping in the background but all I could do was stare at him. My life was finally complete.

Once the other formalities were complete we took blessings from our parents and their friends. Pictures were clicked and the first wedding was finally over. Veer glared at Sheena when she yanked me out of his arms. "Sorry lover boy just another hour and she'll be yours!" He made a face but let me go when I kissed him.

I was dragged back home where everyone changed their lehengas and sarees to gowns and dresses. I wore a beautiful gown. The only jewelry that I had on was the nuptial chain and the chain my grandmother had gifted me. A couple of hoop earrings were attached to my ear. This time I left my hair open and a lace veil clipped to my hair. Everyone got dressed quickly and we drove to the church.

Veer stood at the end of the aisle looking very handsome in his tux. It made his shoulders look broader and he resembled a Greek God. He was standing there along with Karan, Kabir, and Andy as his best men. Tanya, Sheena, and Ira were my bridesmaids. Dad kissed my forehead and walked me down the aisle. "You take care of her Veer! One mistake and I'll end you!" Veer swallowed and I rolled my eyes. "Dad! Stop that! You're embarrassing me!" He rolled his eyes but kissed my cheek.

"I love you kiddo!" I smiled and kissed his cheek. "I love you too Dad!" I lifted my gown and walked towards Veer who hands his hand out. I clasped my hand with him and he helped me stand in front of him. The priest asked us to repeat the vows and we did. In the end, we said our I do's and rings were exchanged. The rings represented the promise that we made to each other. The promise of being with each other in sickness, and in health for the better or the worse till death do us apart.

"You may kiss the bride!" Veer smirked at me and I warned him with my eyes to behave. He leaned forward and kissed my lips chastely. Everyone began hooting and clapping.

Veer dragged me into a car after I threw the bouquet which was caught by Tanya much to Veer's horror. "No, she's not getting married next!" I rolled my eyes and laughed. "Of course not Veer! It's just a tradition! Relax!"  Veer grunted mumbling something under his breath and helped me sit in the car.

We had a reception arranged in the backyard of my house but before that Veer wanted to take me somewhere. He has been doing something suspicious for the past few days and I don't know what that is. Forty-five minutes later he stopped the car in front of a beautiful house. A watchman opened the gate and he parked it in front of the door.

"Welcome to our new home Meera!" Veer whispered and I was still trying to comprehend what was going on. Did he buy us a house? I couldn't believe it. He helped me out of the car. The house was two-story, not big but it looked amazing.

"So what do you think?" Veer laughed nervously and I shook my head. "It's so beautiful!" I know for a fact that we may have to move a lot considering our jobs and I also know that there will be long distances but to know that we have something permanent here means the world to me. We were even close to our parents, just fifteen minutes away.

"Come on I'll show you the inside!" He tugged me towards the front door and handed me the key. "Do the honors Meera!" I shook my head and held his hand. "Together! Let's do it together!" Veer smiled kissed my forehead and together we unlocked the house of our dreams.

Everything was already decorated and furnished. "This is the living room! There are two floors with two rooms on each floor and a balcony. One of the second-floor rooms is a library and the other one is a media room. The basement is the gym. Our bedroom is on the first floor and along with the guest bedroom. We can always add another room when it's necessary!" He said the last part with a blush. I melted, he was referring to our future kids. Veer can be shy too. I kissed his cheek.

We toured the house and I gasped, hugged, and squealed every time I saw something amazing. The garden was huge and there was a swing as well. A bag of my clothes, as well as Veer's, was already there in the bedroom.

Veer received a call from the designer who was designing the interior of Prerana. I sighed and walked towards the wall in our bedroom which was decorated with photo frames. Tears glistened my eyes when I realized they were pictures of Veer and me starting from the very first time we met to all the way to our engagement.

Every single picture made me realize how far we had come. I traced the very first picture of Veer and me. We were only toddlers standing together holding hands and smiling goofily at the camera. "I have loved you all my life Meera! All my life!" Veer wrapped his arms around my waist and kissed my forehead.

"I have loved you all my life too!" I whispered and turned to face him. Sure, we got lost in the way but found our way back to each other and that was all that mattered. He leaned and kissed my lips passionately. "I'm never leaving you again!" He whispered against my lips and I nodded.

"I know!" I whispered. Things were going to get hard for us but Veer and I had already been through hell. So, I do not doubt that we will overcome every obstacle that is thrown our way. We stood there in each other's arms and admired the pictures until our hearts were content.

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A/N: I know you guys must be wondering as to why I haven't been updating regularly and the reason is the faster I update the quicker the story is close to ending and  I am really not ready for that! 

Honestly, writing this story wasn't easy but I wouldn't have it any other way. I did have a lot of anxiety, heartburn, and even times where I wanted to give up but I am glad that I pushed myself through this! I couldn't have done any of this without the support from you lovely readers!

Also, please do let me know if there are any errors in this chapter! I did my best to describe everything! I'm sorry for not replying to your comments! I'll do it all together!

Hope you liked this chapter! If you did please do vote, comment, and share! I would love to know what you guys think!